TRENTON – Senator Jim Whelan, D-Atlantic, released the following statement regarding Environment New Jersey’s report on off-shore wind in the Garden State:
“Unfortunately, we are still waiting three years later for the BPU to implement an offshore wind program in New Jersey. Every year we have to have the same press conference. It feels like Groundhog Day. The state cannot continue to remain idle on these important projects and allow wind-energy investors to leave New Jersey. It is time to act now.
““Three years ago, New Jersey set out to be a leader in wind energy, passing a law that should have put the state at the forefront in renewable energy while allowing us to expand our green energy capacity and put more people to work. This landmark legislation has a real potential to be a boon for New Jersey and Atlantic City, potentially injecting more than $150 million into the economy.
“From the men and women who install and maintain the windmills to those who are designing and engineering the turbines, from investment and financing operations to the increased tourism from those wishing to visit what could be the first-in-the-nation offshore wind farm, New Jersey’s economy could see a real shot in the arm with this new industry. The long-term financial advantages are even greater. We can make Atlantic City the capital of New Jersey and the United States’ emerging renewable energy industry.”
